The popular Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is facing another battery recall. Recall “B9A” (NHTSA recall 23V-787) addresses a potential fire risk originating from the 4xe’s 17.3kWh battery. Jeep is advising owners to refrain from charging their vehicles and park them outdoors, away from structures and other vehicles, until the recall repair is complete.
This recommendation stems from the risk of an internal HV battery failure potentially leading to a vehicle fire, regardless of whether the ignition is on or off. Such an incident poses a significant risk of injury to occupants and bystanders, as well as potential property damage.
Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, has reported eight instances of 4xe battery fires, six of which occurred during charging. While the recall encompasses approximately 42,000 Wrangler 4xes, primarily in the U.S., it’s estimated that only 1% of these vehicles have the specific defect that could lead to a fire. The remedy involves installing new software. If a particular fault is detected after the software update, the entire battery pack will require replacement.
2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plugged in and charging.
Wrangler 4xe owners can check if their vehicle is affected by the recall by entering their VIN on the Jeep recall website. However, while owners can register for notifications, the necessary software fix isn’t yet available at dealerships. This delay understandably creates concern for owners now aware of the fire risk, however small.
Even a slight chance of a battery fire is naturally unsettling for vehicle owners, especially those in urban environments with limited outdoor parking options. The timely availability of the software update is crucial for addressing this concern and restoring confidence in the Wrangler 4xe.
This isn’t the first recall related to the 4xe’s battery system. Recall “Z71,” issued just over a year ago, addressed potentially faulty fasteners on the hybrid battery that could lead to battery failure and loss of power while driving. That recall involved an inspection and fastener replacement if necessary.
A close-up of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe's badge.
On a positive note, the previous recall appears to have been effectively resolved, and the current recall affects only a small percentage of 4xes. Furthermore, the hybrid battery system used in the Wrangler 4xe has been in use for four model years, suggesting a degree of familiarity and expertise on Jeep’s part.
Nevertheless, this recall highlights the challenges associated with the transition to PHEVs and EVs. Large battery packs, while offering significant benefits, can pose safety risks if not meticulously designed and managed. Even established automakers with extensive experience can encounter unforeseen issues.
https://www.autoblog.com/2023/11/28/stellantis-recalling-jeep-wrangler-4xe-phev-over-fire-risk/
https://www.mopar.com/en-us/my-vehicle/recalls/search.html
https://www.chrysler.com/universal/webselfservice/pdf/Z71.pdf
